Invertebrate animal model with neurodegenerative phenotype for screening and testing substances

Abstract

The present invention claims an invertebrate animal that has been modified to express a set of genes, the set comprising the gene coding for a modified version of the gamma subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPKg). According to the invention, the animal displays an identifiable phenotype related to lipid metabolism and neurodegeneration. This animal provides a model of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease, and may be useful for screening and testing modulating agents, substances and therapeutic compounds for neurodegenerative disorders.

1. A transgenic  Drosophila  whose genome is homozygous for the loechrig (loe) allele and homozygous for the  Drosophila  β-amyloid precursor-like deletion allele (Appl d ), wherein said transgenic  Drosophila  exhibits enhanced vacuolization, sterility in female  Drosophila , neurodegeneration, accumulation of fatty acids in the brain and reduction of cholesterol ester.